Japan - Escapade to Japan - First Cabin Travel

Welcome to Tokyo, a bustling metropolis home to 14 million people. Upon arrival, a taxi is the most convenient way to transfer from the airport to your hotel. On your first day, your guide will assist you in activating your Rail Pass, and you’ll begin a sensory-rich tour of the city’s modern skyscrapers and neon lights, contrasted by the serene beauty of its ancient palaces and shrines.

Start your day with a visit to the Imperial Palace Square and the National Diet Building, the seat of Japan’s government. Continue to the Skytree for breathtaking city views, followed by a visit to the Meiji Shrine, nestled in 170 acres of forest. Weekends at the shrine are often marked by newlywed couples seeking blessings.

After lunch at a local restaurant, explore the peaceful Rikugien Gardens with your guide. Then, board the Shinkansen (Bullet Train) for a swift journey to Nikko, where you'll visit the Futarasan Shrine and the sacred Shinkyo Bridge. Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999, is home to the famous Toshogu Shrine and surrounded by lush forests.

The next morning, travel to Hakone National Park via train and private car. There, you’ll see the majestic Mount Fuji across Lake Ashi. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake, take a ropeway to a scenic hilltop, and stroll along the Tokai-do Road, an ancient path lined with cedar trees. End your day with a visit to the historic Amazake Chaya tea house.

Begin the following day with a visit to the Hakone Open Air Museum, which harmoniously blends nature and art. Highlights include the Picasso exhibition. Afterward, enjoy free time to explore or relax at your Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, before departing for Nagoya, where you’ll visit the town of Naraijuku.

Your journey continues with a three-hour trek from Magome to Tsumago along the Kiso Road, passing shrines, waterfalls, bamboo groves, and tea houses along the ancient stone path. After exploring Tsumago, return by rail for an evening of rest. Travel next to Takayama, a town known as “Little Kyoto.” Explore the Miyagawa Market and Old Town, famous for its centuries-old sake breweries and tea houses. The town’s traditional charm and history make it a memorable stop on your journey.

Board the train to Kanazawa, home to the stunning Kenrokuen Park. Your guide will take you on a walking tour of the park and the old Geisha District, where restored tea houses and restaurants now reside. Spend the evening at leisure, resting or further exploring the city’s wonders. With a full day in Kanazawa, consider visiting the Omicho Market or the Kanazawa Castle. Stroll through the Geisha District’s narrow lanes and soak in the local culture before departing by rail to Kyoto, Japan’s former capital and a treasure trove of shrines, temples, and pagodas.

In Kyoto, your guide will lead you on a day-long tour, visiting the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and a traditional sake brewery. In the evening, consider visiting the Gion District, where you might catch a glimpse of Geisha on their way to entertain clients. For a day trip outside Kyoto, visit Mount Kurama. A short train ride takes you to Kuramadera Temple, followed by a scenic trek to Kifune through ancient forests and wooden structures. Return to Kyoto for an evening of relaxation.

Finally, board the Shinkansen to Hiroshima. There, you’ll take a ferry to Miyajima Island, known for its free-roaming deer and picturesque shrines. Visit the famous floating Tori gate before returning to Hiroshima to explore the Peace Memorial Park. Afterward, return to Kyoto for your final night of leisure before heading home, ending your unforgettable journey through Japan.

Since 1989 First Cabin Travel has created luxury-styled itineraries to varied and unique destinations with the majority of bookings derived from repeat clientele and their enthusiastic referrals. Over these many years, First Cabin has come to be known as Your Passport to Excellence. Visit firstcabin.com to review a list of suggested itineraries as well as the option to create your very own custom tour.

CA Reg: 2018168-40